Freeform's Karey Burke on Being Part of the 'Gayest Network on Television'

Freeform executive Karey Burke’s son recently told her that she had “the gayest network on television.” And he meant it as a compliment.

According to GLAAD’s 2018-2019 report, the network is the most diverse and inclusive of LGBTQ characters in all of cable, with 25 LGBTQIA leads and supporting characters.

Burke, who is the network’s executive vice president of programming and development, spoke at Variety’s Inclusion Summit. She said most Freeform shows often feature lead characters who are women, people of color, and those in the LGBTQ community. White men are actually the minority, although “we allow a few in the door,” Burke quipped.

Having fought for diversity on screen for so long, Burke realized that it’s achieved more often when the minds behind the screen are also from diverse backgrounds.

“The more diverse voices we have creating television and film, the more diverse representation there will be, ultimately in the outcome,” she said.

Power of Women honoree Alicia Keys addressed Grammy president Neil Portnow’s controversial “step up” comment and deemed women “agents of change” for their impact on current global movements during Variety‘s Power of Women luncheon Friday.